Expanding Your Brewery's Branded Merchandise for Growth and Profit

In today's competitive craft beer market, having a standout product is only part of the equation. To truly grow your loyal base, boost seasonal release success, and increase profit margins, breweries need to innovate continually and expand their branded merchandise offerings. Here’s how you can leverage a variety of branded items, from drink coolers to growlers, to achieve these goals.

1. Grow Your Loyal Base with Branded Merchandise

Brewery-branded merchandise is a powerful tool for cultivating loyalty among your customers. When fans wear your branded t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and caps, they become walking advertisements for your brewery. This not only spreads brand awareness but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among your patrons.

Example: Brewpubs and microbreweries can host events where customers who wear their branded gear receive discounts or special perks, further encouraging repeat business and brand loyalty.

2. Increase Success in Seasonal Releases

Seasonal beer releases are an exciting time for breweries and their customers. Complement these releases with limited-edition merchandise that creates buzz and drives sales. Think custom-designed t-shirts, drink coolers like Stubbyz, and growlers that celebrate the new brew. These items can become collector’s pieces that customers eagerly anticipate with each new season and respect your brand.

Statistics: Limited-edition products can see up to 40% higher sales during release periods compared to standard merchandise. Think "Gift w/ purchase".

3. Boost Profit Margins with Premium Items

While everyday items like t-shirts and caps are essential, don’t overlook the profit potential of premium merchandise. High-quality growlers, branded glassware, and sophisticated drink coolers offer higher profit margins and appeal to dedicated fans willing to pay for exclusive, well-crafted products. Don't underestimate what customers are willing to pay to promote your brwery!

Example: A branded growler can retail for significantly more than a standard t-shirt, and customers are often willing to pay a premium for items that enhance their beer-drinking experience. Plus, they bring it back to fill!

4. Diversify Your Merchandise Range

Don’t limit your merchandise offerings to the basics. Explore a range of printable items to keep your brand fresh and exciting. Consider introducing new items like:

• T-shirts and Sweatshirts: Classic staples that can be refreshed with new designs and seasonal themes. The more the merrier! Diverse ranges increase AOVs and ensure there's something for everyone.
• Hats and Caps: Versatile and popular, perfect for outdoor events and casual wear. Caps also provide some of the best grosss margins and are lightweight to ship.
• Premium Drink Coolers: High-quality drink coolers from YETI, Camelbak and Stubbyz provide functionality and a premium feel. Neoprene is way better than a cheap foam flat-pack that nobody wants - even as a freebie!
• Glassware and Growlers: Ideal for at-home use and gifting, enhancing the customer experience. Sell a pour with it's own glass!
• Seasonal and Limited-Edition Items: Create urgency and excitement around your brand.

Statistics: Breweries that refresh their merchandise range quarterly see up to 25% more sales than those that stick with a static inventory.

5. Frequent Drops of New Merchandise

To keep customers engaged and coming back for more, introduce new merchandise regularly. This strategy not only maintains interest but also creates a sense of urgency as customers know that new, limited-edition items are always on the horizon. Promote these drops through your social media channels, email newsletters, and in-store displays.

Example: Launch a "Merch Monday" campaign where you release a new item or collection at the start of each week, creating anticipation and driving consistent traffic to your taproom or online store.

6. Innovate and Don’t Settle

Innovation is key in maintaining a strong merchandise program. Regularly update your designs, experiment with new product types, and listen to customer feedback to ensure your offerings align with their preferences. This proactive approach will keep your brand dynamic and relevant.

Example: Partner with local artists to create unique, collaborative merchandise designs that reflect your community’s culture and resonate with your customers.

Try new suppliers

Expanding your brewery's branded merchandise is more than just a revenue stream; it's a way to deepen customer loyalty, enhance the excitement around seasonal releases, and boost your profit margins. By offering a diverse range of high-quality, innovative products, you can keep your brand fresh and engaging, ensuring that your brewery stands out in a crowded market. Embrace the power of merchandise and watch your brewery's brand grow.

Having reliable and stable partners is easy, but mix it up to find new and exciting products that make your offering unique. Give different promotional and merch companies a chance to earn your business and they'll jump at the opportunity.

About Printwear Magazine

Printwear Magazine is your premier destination for everything related to elevating and promoting your brand, team, group, or company. We provide content to those seeking innovative solutions to amplify their visibility through creatively decorated apparel, hard goods, promotional products, merch, and swag. Our platform is dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest trends, available options and unique branding experiences.

Whether you're a small business owner, a team manager or an individual looking to make a statement, Printwear Magazine is your go-to resource for discovering exceptional branding solutions and staying ahead of the curve in the world of promotional merchandise. Join us as we explore the endless possibilities to brand greatness together! Find us at: printwearmagazine.com